A Grassy Park family regarded as “stalwarts of the community” has lodged a complaint with Groote Schuur Hospital over the treatment of their mother Pearl Jacobus, who died at the hospital on Thursday 5 October.
Nicole Jacobus, deputy chair of the Grassy Park Community Policing Forum (CPF) and member of Carola Neighbourhood Watch, said the family was visiting her sister at Groote Schuur when her mother fell ill.
“On Monday 2 October, we were on our way to visit my sister, Janice, who had a procedure done at the hospital.”
She explains that the family decided to take the stairs from C floor to F floor because one of the elevators were out of order.
“We arrived at F floor and I went to find out how to get to F 12. We walked further and then my mom collapsed. My father caught her and prevented her from knocking her head.”
Running for help at the hospital, Jacobus claimed the reaction time of staff to assist her unresponsive mom was very slow.
“We felt for her pulse and couldn’t feel anything.
“I asked if anyone was going to assist and they asked where her folder was and then CPR was administered.”
Tragically, after four days in hospital her mother passed away at the age of 72.
“This came as a massive shock to us as family and friends because my mother hadn’t complained about any pains and was still chatting to neighbours that Monday afternoon.”
Last week, Jacobus told the People’s Post that the hospital had since apologised to the family.
“We lodged a complaint and had a consultation on 3 October where they have apologised for the incident.”
She described her mother as a helpful and caring individual.
“Both my parents were part of the neighbourhood watch and the Civil Protection now known as Disaster Risk Management and volunteered for many years.
“My mom always put others first and herself last.”
Upon hearing of her mother’s passing, residents paid tribute on social media.
“It’s with a heavy heart that I am writing this post…my heartfelt condolences to the Jacobus family.
“My heart goes out to Janice, Lloyd, Nicole and their dad Neil.
“The Jacobus family are stalwarts in Grassy Park and are always available in any crises. Please keep the family in prayer.”
Meanwhile, Groote Schuur Hospital spokesperson Alaric Jacobs confirmed that an investigation has been launched regarding concerns raised by the family.
“Mrs Jacobus was attended to by the staff at the site of the incident and immediately taken to our emergency unit for further care.
“The hospital remains in contact with the family and has launched an investigation in relation to the concerns raised. Further communication has been arranged with the family.
“Groote Schuur Hospital is committed to providing high-quality, accessible health care to all patients.”
